What is Kempo?
Kempo, which translates as fist method, is an ancestor of modern Karate descended from Chinese, Japanese and Okinawan martial arts. Distinguishing features of Kempo include:
- Kempo is not a combat sport
- Kempo is primarily an unarmed fighting art, using the body's natural weapons to deliver quick powerful strikes to vulnerable targets
- The techniques of Kempo are fluid combinations of strikes, throws and finishing holds such as joint locks and strangulation techniques
- There is an emphasis on close-range or in-fighting techniques including, for example, elbows and knees
- Kempo teaches linear and circular movements using the traditional concepts of hard and soft, sometimes opposing force directly and at other times yielding to it
- Today Kempo is not only a self-defence method but a perfect way to maintain health and wellbeing at any age and can be a hobby for life.
What does training involve?
Many traditional martial arts schools teach basics in isolation, with self-defence applications considered only at an advanced level or as an afterthought. We disagree with this approach. We believe that basics should be learned and refined in the context of their real world applications. We've put a lot of thought into how we teach our students, especially during their first few years of training.
The classes will contain several of the following elements (depending on level):
- traditional and modern conditioning drills designed specifically to improve function for martial arts (we don't spend time doing exercises you can do on your own in a gym)
- repetition of the basics (technical building blocks) to achieve efficiency (best effect with least effort)
- combinations (sequences of attack and defence) drilled in pairs to develop technical excellence
- self-defence pressure drills designed to build awareness, reactions and composure
- sparring to develop timing, judgement of distance and balance, and to condition your body to withstand the impact of strikes and kicks.
Belts and progression
The belt ranking system is a visible system of progression which recognises proficiency and knowledge.
- Students are continually assessed by instructors and belts are awarded when the performance requirements of that grade have been met. Students training regularly tend to make the most rapid progress.
- We do not charge for promotions or grading certificates.
- Ungraded members (usually beginners) wear a White Belt.
- There are three student grades: Yellow Belt (Novice Student), Green Belt (Intermediate Student) and Brown Belt (Advanced Student). When they are ready Brown Belts are invited to take the Black Belt Test.
- The Black Belt denotes a high level of technical competence and a deep conceptual understanding of the art. Most Black Belts also become fully qualified instructors. We can't say that Black Belts come easily but we do believe that anyone can get there provided they train regularly and with determination. A Black Belt is a White Belt who didn't quit!
Schedule
Our training days are Tuesdays and Thursdays at the following times:
In the Foundations class the emphasis is on developing your basic self-defence toolkit.
In the Intermediate class the emphasis is on developing technical combinations, many of which require a more advanced level of agility, coordination and timing. Some defence against everyday weapons is also considered at this level. More time is devoted to self-defence pressure drills and sparring.
- You will learn how to fall and get up safely as well as how to stand and position yourself for self-defence. As soon as you can do this competently you will be welcome to attend the Intermediate Skills class.
- You will learn how to generate power efficiently across a wide range of striking techniques including open-hand strikes and kicks.
- You will learn key concepts and tactics that will enable you to efficiently defend common strikes and prevent or escape grabs, chokes and body holds.
- You will learn the basic throws, joint locks and choke holds of Kempo and how they are applied to best effect in a self-defence situation.
In the Intermediate class the emphasis is on developing technical combinations, many of which require a more advanced level of agility, coordination and timing. Some defence against everyday weapons is also considered at this level. More time is devoted to self-defence pressure drills and sparring.
Where?
Our training takes place across two superbly equipped permanent dojo facilities in Harrow on the Hill. Both rooms have fully fitted IJF-regulation matting and safety wall padding with a full range of training equipment on hand.
Address: Harrow School Dojo, Harrow on the Hill, Yew Walk, HA1 3HJ
Club fees
- The Club is a non-profit community organisation. We set our fees to cover the running costs of the Club.
- Members must pay monthly by standing order for either one or two days per week. Please enquire further for details.
- Our training uniform costs £70 and will last a lifetime.
- There are no hidden costs. We will never charge for belt promotions or certificates.
